Duluth Cub Scouts Have Fun And Learn With Pinewood Derbies

By
KBJR News 1

February 26, 2012Updated Feb 26, 2012 at 10:58 PM CST

Duluth, MN (Northland's NewsCenter)The tradition of the Cub Scout Pinewood Derby goes back to the 50's when a California Cubmaster developed affordable model cars to replace full size soap box derby racing among his scouts.This Pinewood Derby is taking place in Duluth and young Ryan Carlson knows his car is up against some tough competition.

"Well, because we have a bunch of good racers here and I'm willing that we're all going to win." said Carlson.

"It's a nice opportunity for them to work with their parents and make something that is a lot of fun to use. I still have mine from when I was a kid." said Scout Leader Mike Anderson.

The main goal of the race is to teach grace and poise in both victory and defeat.

"Sportsmanship is the primary thing you want to teach because everybody can't go home with a trophy." said Anderson.

When the graphite dust used to lube the car axles settled, Ryan Carlson did indeed win.

"I can't believe I actually did it. That was sort of amazing. I got a trophy and a ribbon. This is my car, the Akela Dragster." said Carlson.

In Cub Scouting, Akela the Wolf is the symbol of wisdom.This night, there was no bad behavior from any of the kids lining the race track.The wisdom of good sportsmanship indeed was learned by the whole pack.In Duluth, Dave Anderson, the Northland's News Center.

Local Pinewood Derbies are rolling all across the Northland right now.In April, Proctor's Cub Scout Pack will host the North Star District Derby.Other districts will hold similar events.